In Edwin Arlington Robinson's poem "Richard Cory," the titular character is depicted as a wealthy, handsome, and gracious man who is admired by all who know him. However, despite his outwardly perfect facade, Cory ultimately takes his own life, revealing that he was deeply unhappy and unfulfilled. This tragedy serves as a powerful reminder that appearances can be deceiving and that people should not be judged solely based on their external circumstances.
Throughout the poem, Robinson uses a variety of symbols to convey the theme of the dangers of judging others based on their appearance and social status. One such symbol is the use of the phrase "quietly arrayed," which is used to describe Cory's appearance and demeanor. This phrase suggests that Cory is impeccably dressed and well-mannered, presenting a polished and refined image to the world. However, the word "quietly" also implies a sense of reserve and detachment, suggesting that Cory is not fully present or engaged in his interactions with others.
Another symbol in the poem is the use of the word "imperially," which is used to describe Cory's manner of walking. This word carries connotations of royalty and nobility, further emphasizing Cory's status as a wealthy and respected member of society. However, the use of this word also serves to underscore the artificiality of Cory's persona, as it is an exaggerated and over-the-top way of describing his demeanor.
The final and most poignant symbol in the poem is the act of Cory taking his own life. This shocking and unexpected event serves as a powerful reminder that people are not always what they seem, and that it is dangerous to judge others based on their appearance or social status. By taking his own life, Cory reveals that he was deeply unhappy and unfulfilled despite his seemingly perfect life, and that the façade he presented to the world was just that – a façade.
In conclusion, Robinson's use of symbolism in "Richard Cory" serves to emphasize the theme of the dangers of judging others based on their appearance and social status. Through the use of phrases like "quietly arrayed" and "imperially," as well as the shocking act of Cory taking his own life, Robinson reminds readers that people are complex and multifaceted, and that it is important to look beyond external appearances in order to truly understand them.
An Analysis of Richard Cory, a Poem by Edwin Robinson Free Essay Example
While the community is unable to connect with the protagonist on account of his god-like characteristics, the isolation stifles the main character. In addition, the people society envies often have similar or worse problems than the general population. However, there are too much happens thank makes us suspect that the writer represents something else. First, his clean-cut and gentlemanly exterior symbolizes, for the townspeople, his elite status and his comfortable and pleasant life. The fact that he is so slim could mean he is not eating, a sign he is not completely emotionally or mentally sound. The fact that a sidewalk is more superior to a pavement gives Richard Cory a high standard in the town. So on we worked, and waited for the light, And went without the meat, and cursed the And Richard Cory, one calm summer Went home and put a bullet through his head.
Symbolism In Richard Cory, By Edwin Arlington Robinson
The man is described as extremely wealthy and privileged but it is later revealed that he commits suicide in his home. So, the content of the poem also related to that event by mentioning about wealth, poverty, and the foodstuffs. Body symbolism and imagery include "sole to crown," "fluttered pulses," "the bullet through his head. Although they may have success, they may lack happiness, hope, or relationships. Symbols can be used to describe or mean something else.
What are some symbols in "Richard Cory"?
The final line of the poem unveils the discrepancy between perception and reality, showcasing how Cory's public image did not correlate to his private experience. The irony is that Richard Cory was, in the beginning, a very wealthy and happy man who would have whatever he would want. Readers are told that Cory makes huge efforts to be treated like a regular member of the town. Learn more Setting It is worth noting that two distinct settings are established in the poem. Analysis of nineteenth century Gothic texts will provide evidence that an admiration of female Gothic authors lead Dickinson to emulate many of the themes, motifs, and symbols they used. In those times, the townspeople struggled to afford simple things, such as meat or shoes. The author has used denotation by describing the actual status of the character among the people of the town.
(DOC) Analysis of Symbols in A Poem by Edwin Arlington Robinson “Richard Cory”.docx
People who are not well privileged described in the poem as people from downtown envy the life of the rich. They, however, are not aware of the sadness and unhappiness that comes with being wealthy. Behind the doors and the windows, inside the chambers and underneath the gables of the houses in her poems, there exist social values of hospitality, gentility, and distinction, the joy and comfort associated with a happy home, but also anxieties, guilt, and fears. Edwin Arlington Robinson was born in the village of Head Tide in the town of Alna, Maine, on December 22, 1869, third son of Edward and Mary Elizabeth Robinson. The people here do without meat in an attempt to save enough money to escape and hopefully live like Cory. This poem describes a person who is wealthy, well educated, mannerly, and admired by the people in his town.
